"We've added two more quality players to our recruiting class," Zelenock said. "Irem and Kennedy will look to earn playing time early on in the season and challenge the veterans. The pair are the epitome of what it means to be a student athlete. They've both worked hard both on the court and in the classroom. We are thrilled to add them to the Golden Eagle family."

Irem Sile has played volleyball for the past 10 years, and prepares to bring her efforts to the United States. The Turkish standout has played for Galatasaray Sports Club for the past several years, and aims to bring her championship caliber style to the Golden Eagles.

"My dream was to study and play in the US," Sile said. "I've been playing volleyball for 10 years. A coach suggested Tech to me and it must have been my lucky day. TTU has made my dreams come true."

The outside hitter was a member of several championship teams including the 2011-2012 season Turkey Youth Women's Championship. In 2010-11 her team finished fourth. Sile's team also placed in the Istanbul Championships the past two years.

"I am a part of my team and act like that. I want to do my best, and on the court I am a little bit aggressive. I want to get the best results and make something good for the team and for TTU this season. As a student, I want to go to law school after earning my political science degree," added Sile.

Zelenock on Sile:
"Irem is coming from an area of the world that is cultivating great volleyball players. The part of Irem's game that is different from many US players is that she's been playing since she was very young. The level of play is strong due to all the professional players. We just got lucky, Irem never went pro and we found a big steal. Irem has the potential to be an impact player in the OVC."

Kennedy Wade has given her commitment to Tennessee Tech as a walk-on for the Golden Eagles. Wade plays for Phoenix Rising, also the former club of current Golden Eagle Courtney Smith.

"I chose Tennessee Tech because I feel like it is a perfect fit, not only for me athletically, but also academically," Wade said. "I am excited about the volleyball program and the direction it is headed, and I am also looking forward to furthering my academic career through Tech's Exercise Science program."

Wade helped lead her high school team to the 2011 TSSAA District 3 and Region 2 championships. She is a versatile player with the ability to attack from the back row, but will primarily specialize in defense.

"The biggest goal for my volleyball career is to challenge and push myself to go beyond my limits and learn all I can from my coaches and teammates," she added. "I strive to be an encouraging player to my teammates and a leader to look to with constant momentum and energy."

Zelenock on Wade:
"Kennedy is extremely athletic and driven. She has been an outside for her teams for years and will move to the back court here at TTU. She will provide depth in the position right away, and push Courtney (Smith) and Allison (May). Our backcourt is the most athletic I've ever coached, and as the new skills take hold I expect those three will push our defense to be one of the top in the OVC."